Press Release

PUC Begins Review of Competitive Safeguards for Electric Industry, Customers

Published on 2/25/2010

Filed under: Electric

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today initiated an evaluation of competitive safeguards to govern the relationships between electric distribution companies (EDCs), electric generation suppliers and customers.

“As regulators, one of our foremost challenges is making sure we keep up with the industries we are regulating,” said Commissioner Robert F. Powelson in a motion. “Given the changes in the electric industry since our regulations were enacted, I believe it is prudent to conduct a review of those regulations and make any improvements necessary to ensure they are designed to best protect the public interest.”

The Commission voted 5-0 to initiate an evaluation of the Competitive Safeguards Regulations at 52 Pa. Code §§ 54.121 – 123 and draft a proposed rulemaking order. The safeguards, which were codified in July 2000, were designed to assure the provision of direct access on equal and nondiscriminatory terms, to prevent cross subsidization between EDCs and their affiliated suppliers, to prohibit unfair or deceptive practices by suppliers, and to establish and maintain an effective and vibrant competitive market in the purchase and sale of retail electric energy in Pennsylvania. 

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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